The polygraph test, known popularly as "lie detection" has been in use in the United States for over the last few decades. Polygraph tests have proven to be one of the most powerful, robust and useful scientific tools in criminal investigations and personnel screening. It is routinely used in almost all major investigations in advanced countries employing this forensic tool. In recent years, polygraph tests have increasingly been used, within the UK Government and Private Sector, for sex offender testing and monitoring, fraud, crime, infidelity, relationship issues and theft. Today, the polygraph test is used in more than 56 other countries world-wide, including Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Romania, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, South Africa, United Kingdom, Colombia, the Middle East etc.

How Accurate is the Polygraph?

The American Polygraph Association (APA) has gathered over 200 studies on the subject of test accuracy. You can view further details at the APA website www.polygraph.org Research results regarding polygraph testing vary depending on a number of factors some of which are laboratory study, versus field study and inconclusive results being included or excluded. To help achieve a high accuracy rate the examiner you use should be a properly qualified individual using an accepted technique. Visit BPA website www.britishpolygraphassociation.org Although no forensic testing of any kind can be guaranteed 100% accurate, some research has suggested that qualified polygraph examiners are up to 98%accurate in their overall decisions. (refer: Ansley N 1990 The Validity and reliability of Polygraph examinations in real cases).

What about Countermeasures?

A countermeasure can be described as anything that an examinee might do in order to distort or defeat a polygraph test. A polygraph examiner and recent developments in combating countermeasures, such as an activity monitor, can usually detect such behaviours.

Do nerves affect the results of a test?

No. It is expected that all polygraph test subjects will be nervous, whether they intend to be truthfull or not. Examiners look for responses over and above the examinee's normal heightened level of anxiety.

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